Best Family Friendly Beaches in Maryland

Chesapeake Beach is a charming resort town located in Calvert County, Maryland. It offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. The town is situated on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, providing stunning waterfront views and opportunities for boating and fishing. Historically, it was a popular weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, known for its boardwalk and entertainment options. Today, visitors can enjoy attractions like the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum, a water park, and various marinas. The town has a population of just under 6,000, maintaining a friendly and laid-back atmosphere.

Chesapeake Beach has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a bustling resort community in the early 20th century to a quieter, more family-oriented town. Its proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C. makes it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to urban amenities.

The town's scenic waterfront and outdoor recreational opportunities are complemented by its vibrant community life, featuring local events and festivals throughout the year.

Calvert Beach is a charming census-designated place in Calvert County, Maryland, known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay. It offers a serene escape from urban life, with opportunities to enjoy water activities and explore nearby attractions like lighthouses and nature reserves. The area is rich in natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature.
The community is small, with a population of around 791 as of 2020, providing a cozy and intimate setting for residents and visitors alike. While it may not have extensive amenities within the immediate area, its proximity to larger towns like Solomons Island and Chesapeake Beach ensures access to a variety of dining and recreational options.
Calvert Beach is part of the broader Calvert County area, which is renowned for its historical sites, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene.

Cunningham Falls State Park, located in the Catoctin Mountains of Maryland, is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse recreational activities. The park features Maryland's highest cascading waterfall, which is a major attraction, along with a lake offering swimming and boating opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails of varying difficulty, including the popular Lower Trail to the falls and the more challenging Cliff Trail. The park also hosts the Annual Maple Syrup Festival and offers camping facilities, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and families.
The park's William Houck Area includes the lake, falls, and campgrounds, while the Manor Area offers additional camping sites and historical attractions like the Catoctin Iron Furnace. The park's proximity to Washington D.C. makes it an accessible getaway for those seeking outdoor adventures.
With its rich history and natural beauty, Cunningham Falls State Park provides a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Maryland.

Matapeake Beach, located in Stevensville, Maryland, offers a serene escape along the Chesapeake Bay. This picturesque beach boasts a 900-foot shoreline with light brown sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. The area is also home to a dog beach, a one-mile trail, and an outdoor amphitheater, providing a variety of activities for visitors. The beach is open from sunrise to sunset and features a family picnic area and restrooms, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike.

The beach's history dates back to the early 1900s when it was a popular amusement park. Today, it is one of the few local beaches that allow swimming, making it a popular destination during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Bay Bridge and explore the surrounding woods via a scenic trail.

Matapeake Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life. It is a must-visit for those seeking a relaxing day by the bay.

Assateague Island, located off the coast of Maryland, is a 37-mile-long barrier island renowned for its pristine beaches, wild horses, and diverse wildlife. The island is divided between Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, offering a range of activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the marshes by canoe or kayak and enjoy the scenic bike paths. The island's unique charm and natural beauty make it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and tranquility.
The island is easily accessible from nearby Ocean City, Maryland, making it a convenient day trip or extended vacation spot. The annual Pony Swim, where wild horses are rounded up and auctioned off, is a major attraction.
Assateague Island's natural habitats support a wide variety of birds and marine life, adding to its allure as a nature lover's paradise.